Matthew Barnes

I was born in Egypt and raised in South Dakota. Growing up I did not have a lot, but I always had comics. They were the first thing that made me want to pick up a pencil. I spent most of my childhood copying characters out of whatever books I could get my hands on, and somewhere in that process drawing just became part of who I am.

My work now is built on that same foundation. I use metal, graphite, and Procreate to create my pieces. I am drawn to work that feels intentional and a little dark. Figures, shadows, and weight pull me in.

I am still heavily influenced by graphic art and illustration, and I do not think that will ever fully separate from whatever fine art direction my work takes. For me they have always been the same thing.